Wow, how can anyone afford a guitar over there if you're not rich? I'm trying to figure out the price conversion. As far as I can tell 1 pound=1.50 US=2.25 Cdn. Looking at the moderate-price range Martins at Thrift music, "moderate" is a strange term. For example, a Martin D-1 is about the same price in pounds (1029) as it is in dollars here. Much less differential on the standard models, D18's or D28's are only slightly more expensive over there--I would pay 2500-3000 Cdn for a new one here.

I don't know about the comparisons of service industry though. People have made the same comments about the difference in quality of service between US and Canadian stores, but I have found the same extreme range of quality in both countries. It's not a national trait.

But hey you UK based Catters, if you must have a D1, let me know. I'll be making the trip sometime. (Or maybe I'll bring my O18 and sell it to extend my stay). Not real soon unfortunately.

W-O